Approaching Jesus as a Kid

Read Aloud

Jesus said in Matthew 19:14, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”

When you’re a kid, following Jesus can feel exciting—but it can also feel hard at times. Maybe you’ve prayed before lunch and someone laughed. Maybe you’ve told a friend you couldn’t do something because it wasn’t right, and they teased you. Or maybe you’ve felt left out because of the choices you make to honor God. Those moments are tough, but you’re not alone. Jesus sees you, and He knows exactly how you feel.

Why Kids’ Faith Matters So Much

Being a kid doesn’t mean your faith is “smaller” or “less important.” In fact, Jesus celebrated kids’ faith because it’s often stronger than grown-ups’!

• Kids trust easily. You believe God’s promises with a simple, open heart.

• Kids are bold. You ask questions, you talk about Jesus, and you’re not afraid to be excited about your faith.

• Kids inspire others. Your family, your teachers, even other adults can see Jesus through the way you live.

  
  

When Jesus pointed to kids as an example, He was saying, “This is the kind of faith I love—pure, trusting, and real.”

When Friends Make Fun of You

Nobody likes to feel teased or left out. But Jesus Himself was laughed at, mocked, and even betrayed by people He loved. That means when you’re picked on for your faith, you’re walking the same path He walked.

Here are some ways to handle it:

1. Pray for your friends. It may feel strange to pray for the kids who hurt your feelings, but Jesus told us to love our enemies. Ask God to bless them and help them understand Him better.

2. Stand strong. Romans 1:16 says, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel.” Even if others don’t get it, remember that God is proud of you for standing with Him.

3. Find your people. Hang out with friends, church kids, or family who lift you up and share your love for God. Being around people who encourage you makes a big difference.

4. Remember your worth. Your value doesn’t come from what other kids think—it comes from God. He made you, loves you, and calls you His child.

   
   

Examples From the Bible

• David was young when he faced Goliath. Other people doubted him, but David’s faith in God gave him courage.

• Daniel was still young when he chose to pray, even when it was dangerous. He trusted God instead of following the crowd.

• Timothy was a young believer who became a leader in the church. Paul reminded him, “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example” (1 Timothy 4:12).

  
  

These stories remind us that being young doesn’t make your faith smaller—it makes your courage shine even brighter.

Staying Faithful as a Kid

Faith isn’t just something for adults. As a kid, you can live faithfully every single day:

• Pray often. Talk to Jesus like He’s your best friend—because He is.

• Read the Bible. Even a few verses can help you know God better.

• Choose kindness. When others tease or exclude you, respond with love. That’s what Jesus would do.

• Share your faith. Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is simply say, “I believe in Jesus.”

  
  

Final Encouragement

Being a kid who follows Jesus isn’t always easy. But it is powerful. Your faith has the ability to change the world around you. You may never know how many people will be touched because you chose to stay faithful, even when it was hard.

Remember: Jesus is proud of you. He sees every prayer, every brave choice, and every time you stand up for Him. Keep approaching Him with the open heart of a kid, and you’ll find strength to keep shining His light wherever you go.

✨ Kingdom Kids Challenge: This week, when you feel teased or left out because of your faith, whisper a prayer for that friend and remember that Jesus is right there with you, smiling at your courage.